The Arco (1962) by the Castiglioni brothers uses a heavy marble base, a long stainless-steel arc, and an aluminum shade to provide overhead illumination without hardwiring. Licensed productions preserve the original materials and proportions; many reproductions exist. Consider footprint, care for marble and metal, and authenticity when buying.
The Arco: a modern classic
Designed by Achille and Pier Giacomo Castiglioni in 1962, the Arco floor lamp remains one of the 20th century's most recognizable lighting designs. The Museum of Modern Art in New York includes the Arco in its collection, and the lamp continues to appear in interiors, museums, and design retrospectives.
What makes the design enduring
The Arco pairs a heavy marble plinth with a long, arching stainless-steel tube and a small aluminum shade. The marble base acts as a stable counterweight so the slender arc can project overhead light without ceiling installation. This lets the lamp deliver table-level or reading light while keeping surfaces clear.
The Castiglioni brothers designed the lamp to combine industrial materials with domestic function. Marble, steel, and aluminum - materials that feel opposed in weight and texture - work together to produce a utilitarian object that reads as sculpture in a room.
How it performs in real interiors
Because the light source sits at the end of the arc, the Arco can illuminate dining tables or seating areas from a distance. You can move it to suit new layouts, but the heavy base keeps it firmly anchored during use.
Genuine Arco lamps are produced under license (the historic license-holder is Flos) and follow the original proportions and materials. There are many reproductions and lower-cost knock-offs; visual cues such as the marble quality, the finishing of the steel tube, and the shade detailing help distinguish originals from copies.
Care and considerations
- Placement: Allow enough floor space for the base and arc; the lamp's footprint is larger than a standard floor lamp.
- Care: Wipe the steel tube and aluminum shade with a soft damp cloth. Marble can be cleaned with a mild, pH-neutral cleaner and sealed periodically if you want extra stain protection.
- Safety: Because of the heavy base, it's not intended to be moved frequently by unassisted single handling. Secure the lamp when transporting.
Price and authenticity
Original, licensed Arco lamps command a premium compared with generic arcs and reproductions. Current retail and resale prices vary widely depending on condition and whether the piece is a licensed production or an unlicensed copy.
If you want the design history with authenticity, look for documentation from the maker or a reputable dealer and inspect the materials closely.
- Confirm current typical retail price range and resale values for licensed Arco lamps.
- Confirm typical weight (in pounds or kilograms) of the original Arco marble base for accurate specification if needed.